Futuristic [Archived] VOIB_ARC1_PART2

[lunar_moth]

Barre Sinister

Magnus Aurelimere

★★★★★★

Male / Exhelian / 28

Vanguard of Imperius

Low Nobility / Pyromancy / 183 cm / 79 kg

EMPEREON PALACE, IMPERIUS, ELESRITH | Interactions: Arkangel Panther

…Party planning. Oh. That, well, that wasn’t really what he’d expected upon being summoned to the palace so late in the evening, but. If his Collbrande wished it of him, then consider it done.

Magnus resists the urge to bow again, having already been dismissed from that formality by von Bismarck upon her arrival. He can’t help it— while being commanded by the Collbrande is not abnormal to him per se, as one of her trusted Vanguards, her presence can’t help but demand from him that modicum of respect, at least. Nevermind that she seems to be wearing her street clothes still.

He settles for placing a hand on his heart and dipping his head a fraction while he speaks. “Consider it done, my lady. We will do our utmost to make sure the celebration is everything it needs to be.”

A final glance at von Bismarck, who manages to seem imposing even in Elesrith streetwear. Then his attention is drawn to Faust, and subsequently, a nervous-sounding woman with long, dark hair— Syriel Janus, Second Arclight of the Kriegsheld Cadre, as it were. While she introduces herself and explains their coming duties, Magnus brings one hand up to his chin in an evaluative gesture — perhaps ‘party planning’ was an oversimplification, he muses, for an event of this calibre.

Regardless. A duty is a duty, and Magnus would not dream of slacking in any assignment given.

(And if, for a moment, he swears he can hear the sounds of enraged voices coming from vaguely above them, well. Perhaps Janus was onto something when she suggested they get some rest.)

 

[Emiya Shin]

Disillusioned Defender

Cecilia Ravenholm

★★★★★★

Female / Demonoid / 32 (April 23rd, 677 EC)

Imperial Security Directorate | "Normal Agent"

Nobility / Geomancy / 172 cm / ?? kg

Emperion Palace, Imperius, Elesrith | Interactions: Arkangel lunar_moth Xel o.Rinn Panther

After Cecilia introduced herself, Magnus praised the Demonoid's background. He also introduced himself, and eventually shot a gaze at a pair of dark-haired female Exhelians not far away from him, hoping that they will join in the minor ice breaking session. Fortunately, they seemed to get Magnus's signal, and the much taller female soon appeared behind him, closely observing Cecilia.

She introduced herself as Elio Solari, with a deep raspy voice. Coupled with her bloodshot eyes, Cecilia could not help but wondering about Elio's condition. Did something happened to her? What did she do before she got summoned to the Collbrande of Elserith's chamber? Also, what's with the Vanguards wanting new faces? Sinaria also said the same thing as well. Were they that bored with each other? At the same time, the much shorter Exhelian female soon joined the crowd as well, introducing herself as Rika Solari with a smile. Hmmm, is that Elios's sister that she has asked just now?

The white haired Demonoid returned the smile to Rika, before shaking Elio's extended hand with a short but firm grasp.

"Cecilia Ravenholm, of the Imperial Security Directorate, Aucteraden Branch. I believe this is our first meeting, Ms. Solari." She glanced both Rika and Elio, before her eyes returned to the taller one. "As such, I'm afraid to say that I never heard about you, nor your sister. Perhaps the two of you can enlighten me about you and your sister's exploits as a Vanguard, over a nice cup of tea?"

The ISD agent replied in a professional manner, as if the Solari sisters are meeting a businesswoman rather than a gruff fighter. She then attempted to answer Rika's question.

"As for the Akashic incident, it's about an acci---"

Cecilia suddenly stopped herself, as she felt a pressuring aura in the atmosphere. She turned around to Dietrich, just in time to see him notifying that the Collbrandes were stepping out from Evelyn's chamber. She then turned her attention to the grand door, anticipating the pair of Collbrandes' appearance.

* * *​

The white-haired Demonoid merely observed the scene stoically as it unfolded in front of her. It was an honor for Cecilia to face not just one, but two Collbrandes in person. It also made her felt how important her task was. However, when Evelyn von Bismarck delegated the group to handle the details of hosting the Northern Coalition Ceremony, Cecilia could not help but feel slightly deflated. She hoped that the other Vanguards were fine with such request, and not to be discouraged by it. After all, organizing an event that involves a Collbrande would most likely require an entourage of trusted Nobles and Commoners.

Eventually, the scene was handed over to the Second Arclight of the Kriegsheld Cadre Syriel Janus. Despite the rather... formal title that Syriel bears, Cecilia could not help but once again judged on how she acted. The white Demonoid did tried her best not to act out of the norm, as she listened to Syriel's short briefing. From the looks of it, Cecilia will be either be involved in event management, or simply an overpaid errant girl. As long anyone from the Vanguards or the Kriegsheld has some basics in event management, it should not be difficult. The security aspect however, that could be tricky.

For now, Cecilia only nodded at Syriel, before shooting a glance at Dietrich, wondering how he would react to this announcement.

 

[Xel]

Rika Solari

★★★★★

Female / Exhelian / 24

Vanguard of Imperius

Low Nobility / Aeromancy / 149.86 cm

EMPEREON PALACE, IMPERIUS, ELESRITH | Interactions: Arkangel (Sinaria/Boss Lady) Emiya Shin (Pretty Demonoid) o.Rinn (Elio) lunar_moth (Magnus)

Rika shot a quick glare up at her sister as the pretty Demonoid rightly explained she'd never heard of them. Why would she? But the prospect of hearing about this incident of hers quickly served to draw those green eyes back towards the Agent. Of course, such information was not meant to grace her ears. With the actual purpose of this summoning making her entrance their introductions were hushed and they returned to as they were. The Vanguards were the elite and so it was to be expected they snap back to attention and greet their Collbrande properly. She was no exception. Any camaraderie between the force can wait until later. Though as she waited and listened it became clear her fears were coming to fruition.

One of the features that set the Vanguards apart from many other elite organizations is they were not merely soldiers. Sure their fighting prowess was important but they held a hand in public and political affairs as well. And it was evident that this was one of those situations that called for their more varied expertise. Not that it was a surprise to anyone, such a large-scale project would inevitably fall into their care. It was just the first time she'd been a member of the Vanguards when it took place. Nevertheless she... well didn't bow, as the Collbrande waved off such formality. But like Magnus, she gave a firm nod and her mouth opened just a smidge before there was the briefest of pauses. "Understood, My Lady." Oh, how she just naturally went to say the same thing as Magnus before catching herself. Though she did well to hide any such feelings, the idea of absent-mindedly repeating what her comrade had just said to the Collbrande no less sent a shiver down her spine.

Soon enough further information was being thrown their way. First Faust, then another pretty lady from across the board. The small stutters, the awkward demeanor. Rika couldn't help but quirk a brow ever-so-slightly. Was this the first time the Volcrest woman had been put in charge of something? Nevertheless, it was all pretty much what she expected, though she wasn't stupid enough to think it'd be as easy as it sounded... Unfortunately. Alas, once Janus finished speaking she gave a nod to the woman. "Don't worry, ma'am, we'll have everything done and ready before you can even marvel at Elesrith's beauty." Did she need the ma'am? Probably not. But when the job called for it, Rika wasn't about to shy away from formalities whether they be needed or not. Should she be speaking on behalf of the Vanguards? Probably not either. But people like her were ever ones to speak up, make themselves known, and take on far more work than their shoulders can bear. She just needed for the actual work to begin to accomplish that last bit.

 

[o.Rinn]

Elio Solari

★★★★★

Female / Exhelian / 28

Vanguard of Imperius

Low Nobility / Photomancy / 178 cm / 79 kg

EMPEREON PALACE, IMPERIUS, ELESRITH | Interactions: Arkangel EMIYAman lunar_moth Xel Panther

Any pointed looks would remain unaddressed, considering Elio was busy admiring the hand that had found hers for a firm shake and the little lady it was attached to – Cecilia, she noted. Elio could remember that. "That's a shame," remarked the Vanguard when Cecilia admitted she hadn't heard of the Solaris. A true mystery, that. An absolute shocker. Didn’t matter how many apologetic smiles or awkward winces she’d receive about the providence over the course of her career, it never failed to boggle what very big brain rolled about between her ears. Still grasping firm to her confidence, Elio’s brow receded high beneath her bangs before she added, "But now that you have heard of me, I'll make sure you don't forget."

Elio winked, coupled with a cocksure grin.

Just as Cecilia was on the cusp of indulging what was surely going to be a juicy tidbit of action, the reminder of what had brought them all together in the first place appeared: their Collbrande, Evelyn von Bismarck. A lovely blonde clad in a strikingly casual fit. Refined airs still seemed to cling to her like a finely spun veil, nevertheless, even if she did brush off the customary formal greetings from her Vanguard. Rika and Magnus, both wrestling the urge to bow deeply to von Bismarck, even still gave way beneath cumbersome ceremonial practices, if only a little. “Dorks,” Elio whispered quietly between the two of them. Was hard not to tease. Then again, a woman like Elio was ever accommodating when told she could forgo the pomp and circumstance.

At the mention of preparations for an event, Elio perked slightly, her fickle interest finally being won over wholly. A celebration? A party, maybe even, hm? Tradition and histories be damned. To Elio, of course it was as easy as it sounded. Why wouldn’t it be? Even if this slightly flustered Kriegsheld at the helm – Syriel, as it were – surely this could be handled without a hitch.

Elio clapped her hands before her, eager and spurred on by Rika’s assured sentiment. “Yeah, we can handle this no problem! We’ll put together the best damn festival you’ve ever seen, huh? Maybe you’ll even wanna stick around a little longer!”

Should she be more eloquent when addressing, well, anyone in this room? Probably. But until someone knocked her back into place, she would remain blissfully herself for the time being.

 

[Arkangel]

Emperon Palace, Imperius, Elesrith | August 5, 709 EC | Current Time: 9:00 AM, Standard Imperius Time

After the meeting between the two prestigious Collbrandes, the guests of the palace were offered a place to rest during the duration of their stay, occupying the empty rooms of the large estate.

Nearly 10 hours had passed since they were given privacy for the night, only to be woken up by duties that was left unfinished. Approximately a week until the advent arrival of the Collbrande of Volcrest, all Vanguards and the servants of the estate, along with the Arclights gathered once more in the main lobby to discuss their plans for the day, with Sinaria and Syriel leading the housekeeping operation.

Sapphire Oculus

Sinaria Morphus

★★★★★★

Female / Exhelian-Demonoid / 120~

Vanguard of Imperius | Grand Servitor

Low Nobility / Soulmancy / 179 cm / 82 kg

Emperion Palace, Imperius, Elesrith
Interactions: Panther Khocolatte Emiya Shin lunar_moth Xel o.Rinn

Star clusters occupied the eyes of the butterfly lady as she faced the group before her, for the first time being given the position as the leader of an operation, even if it was merely a stale effort such as decorating the manor for the purpose of a grand celebration. With Aldous Faust gone and more than half of the Vanguards was engaging with external affairs outside of the province to become an extension of the Herrscher's will, she was the only suitable high-ranking servitor available for the job. She gleefully grinned, possibly making some uncomfortable with her strange expressions, although most Vanguards would know why she was in such a joyous state.

"Goodmorning, Magnus! An excellent morning we're having today, aren't we? You too, Elio! And I can't forget about our cute little sister, Rika~!"

Like a radiating sun penetrating through thick curtains, Sinaria's radiating presence could not be missed by even the most ignorant of fools. "Fair morning to the rest of you as well, fellow comrades of the Holy Empyrian Empire! Must Agartha had blessed up for this fine occasion, would you not all agree? Our great Founding Empress must be showering us with this beautiful gift for us to indulge in! Well, we shall not let it to waste! Starting forward from today, I shall lead this operation to triumphant victory!"

Before anyone could interject or leave a comment about her demeanor, she raised her index finger and gestured a 'shush' motion, almost as if she was trying to quiet down an already silent crowd. "As Miss Janus and I had planned before this gathering, we shall split into two teams! Team 1 will do us the favor of performing housekeeping duties within the manor, leading the maid force glamorously! All floors are expected to be free from dust and preparations shall be made for the perfect evening once the Collbrande of Volcrest steps foot on this marbled floor. Sounds rather simple, right? With the explanations out of the way, team 1 shall consist of: Me, your illustrious commander Sinaria Morphus! Under my leadership shall be the Solari sisters and Syriel Janus!"

Sinaria cleared her throat and continued without wasting a second, "Team 2 will be in charge of duties outside the estate, such as running errands for the 5-star chefs that our Herrscher has hired! Other labors of love include delivering invitational letters for our dear supporters from the noble lineage! Those who have supported the great House Bismarck for the previous decade will be invited to this event. Why not mail it or have the common servants do it in our stead? How ignorant! Our Herrscher is a lady of precision and immaculateness, she is ordering us to perform these duties ourselves because she trusts us the most!"

"Team 2 shall consist of Hildegard, Magnus, Dietrich, Euthalia Samon, and Cecilia Ravenholm. Hildegard! I believe that you will lead your team for the sake of the satisfaction of our Herrscher! Excellent! I shall expect your duties to be over with by tomorrow evening... Dismissed!"

 

[lunar_moth]

Barre Sinister

Magnus Aurelimere

★★★★★★

Male / Exhelian / 28

Vanguard of Imperius

Low Nobility / Pyromancy / 183 cm / 79 kg

EMPEREON PALACE, IMPERIUS, ELESRITH | Interactions: Arkangel Khocolatte Emiya Shin

“Good morning, lady Morphus. Yes, it’s…”

A very-poorly stifled yawn. Magnus isn’t even awake enough yet to be that embarrassed about it. “…really quite lovely today, isn’t it.”

Oh boy. Way to make a good impression today. Arguably, it’s not entirely his fault— ten hours was not nearly enough time to decompress from the day, take a shower on the wrong side of boiling, perform his nightly ritual of staring at the ceiling for hours until sleep finally took him… psh, who is he kidding? Magnus could probably hibernate for the winter and still manage to come out poorly rested. He’s got to accept that’s probably genetic at this point.

Still, though… Sinaria’s awfully chatty this morning, and she’s still busy greeting everybody one-by-one and singing praises to the day. It couldn’t hurt to rest his eyes for… just a second more while she finishes her spiel…..

“Excellent! I shall expect your duties to be over with by tomorrow evening... Dismissed!"

Magnus’ eyes shoot open. Ah, shit! That was far more than a second. No matter. It’s fine. He still absorbed the gist of it— Magnus mentally flips through the tabs in his head to get to Sinaria’s last few sentences. And it looks like the ‘duties’ she’s talking about are;

Ah. Well. More errands. That’s not so bad. Small mercies— he could have been cleaning the massive venue all day instead, with Sinaria (who seems to be dialed to the max today) and the sisters, of whom only one seems to take her role as Vanguard seriously. Good luck, Syriel Janus, he thinks only half-jokingly.

Settled, he directs his attention to the individuals who he was assigned onto Team 2 with. He pastes back on his work smile and hopes his eyes aren’t as close to falling shut as they feel like they are.

“This shouldn’t be a problem. I think we’re beyond capable of getting everything done by tomorrow night.” He pauses to glance at at Hildegard, de facto leader of Team 2. “I thought it would make more sense if I went with one other person to run errands for the chefs, perhaps? It would probably make a better statement to send our higher-ranking team members to meet the invitees in person.”

 

[Panther]

The Mage Knight

Syriel Janus

★★★★★

Female / Exhelian / 35

Kriegsheld Cadre | 2nd Arclight

Commoner / Enchantment / 175.26 cm / 65.7709 kg

Emperion Palace, Imperius, Elesrith, Mainland Agartha | Interactions: Arkangel Khocolatte o.Rinn Xel Emiya Shin

Syriel’s morning went relatively smoothly… or it should’ve went smoothly if she had gotten the right amount of sleep last night after her anxiety, post-briefing after the introductions, and her mental machinations for the events at hand essentially eliminated any chances of her sleeping easily. The first Arclight of the current generation of Kriegshelden rolled about in her bed the previous evening for hours, unable to sleep as a result of these rather extenuating circumstances and only getting sleep when daybreak was nigh.

As if her crankiness wasn’t enough, she woke up late and got to the meeting just in time to see a scene that, suffice it to say, made her look at the group in a way that was most succinctly described as a ‘bruh moment,’ visually cringing before giving a sigh and shaking her head. Who put this overenthusiastic woman, this ‘Sinaria Morphus’ in charge? Well, the answer was glaringly obvious but still, couldn’t the Collbrande of Elesrith have picked someone who isn’t so giddy? Whatever the case, that was the end of complaints for now as she was going to be working with this… inspired individual.

With nothing else to say, primarily because Sinaria already did the talking for her and she was still left somewhat speechless by the eccentric woman’s demeanor from last night up to now that made her uncertain if she was to be more nervous or less, she just adds onto the incoming pile of affirmative statements of plans of action, “I’ll go see the head maid of the Palace and coordinate with her… appropriately.” A certain emphasis on that last word after what just happened before she continues, “If you have any advice for me, Miss Morphus and company, that would be appreciated. You lot know this building, the people, the events, and the proceedings waaaaaaay better than I do at the very least.”

Now the thought of housekeeping with an entire cadre of maids entered her mind, she hadn’t seen a maid before in the flesh, let alone an entire household’s worth of them, and how they really worked. Would they be as strict to protocol and as overly polite as she imagined? Her curiosity was about to sated later. But one thing does lurk at the back of her head… would she be putting on a maid outfit as well with Sinaria coercing her to do so? Would she get impromptu training on how do this housekeeping as a maid aside from just leading the maids? It wasn’t far-fetched. Or would she be at least left to her devices to do what was asked of her in her own way in conjunction with the others? An embarrassing thought regardless that she hoped Sinaria didn’t think of as a way to be more involved with the work at hand and the worse part would probably be the witnesses. Who knows.

 

[Emiya Shin]

Disillusioned Defender

Cecilia Ravenholm

★★★★★★

Female / Demonoid / 32 (April 23rd, 677 EC)

Imperial Security Directorate | "Normal Agent"

Nobility / Geomancy / 172 cm / ?? kg

Emperion Palace, Imperius, Elesrith | Interactions: Arkangel lunar_moth

Cecilia had no issues in getting a decent rest, all thanks to the fact that she has to travel from Aucteraden to Elesrith, and the extreme comfort of these 5-star class empty rooms. It did not took long to ease herself into the Emperion Palace's environment, treating this as some kind of grand business trip generously sponsored by Akashic Records. The white-haired Demonoid did not overslept either, and she was there to experience the entire brunt of Sinaria's exuberant personality in the morning. She did not showed much annoyance unlike their first meeting, and merely showed her usual poker face.

Cecilia merely listened to the blue-haired Grand Servitor, as she announced the two teams that will responsible for managing the Northern Coalition Ceremony. Team 1 will handle cleaning of the palace, while Team 2 is definitely a team of errand boys and girls. It seemed like Cecilia's prediction was correct - she is indeed going to be an overqualified errand girl. Not that she will complain about it, but at the same time, it definitely made her question about the Collbrande. Did they know something secret? Like for example, someone tipped them off that there could be an assassination attempt at the Northern Coalition Ceremony?

Sinaria soon dismissed the group, and everyone was left on their own again. Cecilia soon made her way to meet her team members. Magnus already started outlining his thoughts to Hildegard, who is one angry looking woman. The white Demonoid listened on, until Magnus was done. Then...

"If we're going to carry the ingredients in person to the chefs, then Magnus could be right." Cecilia further suggested on top of Magnus's idea. "That might help us to speed up the work, and cutting the trips that we need to go back and forth. Besides, it breaks up the monotony of working these errands."

 

[o.Rinn]

Elio Solari

★★★★★

Female / Exhelian / 28

Vanguard of Imperius

Low Nobility / Photomancy / 178 cm / 79 kg

EMPEREON PALACE, IMPERIUS, ELESRITH | Interactions: Arkangel Panther Xel

Elio stared as dumb and wordless into the blinding light that was Sinaria’s radiant fervor as anyone would squint directly into the very sun itself. So brilliant. So dazzling. Elio could feel her eyes sizzling in her sockets. Though, that could have been the lack of sleep. Just as others were rightly stressed about the awaited arrival from the Collbrande of Volcrest, Elio, too, found a thrill in the anticipation. It was an energy of which she was quick to funnel into a spontaneous late-night drill – she’d have to look sharp for those festivities, after all – and, fueled by that spark of inspiration, that late-night drill would eventually lead into early morning drill til soon enough, she barely had the time to shower, change, and drag her feet to the present meeting.

Now, Elio stood with her eyes scrunched beneath the strain of a fatigued brow, mouth hanging slightly ajar, and barely managing to murmur an ‘uh-huh’ in acknowledgment to Sinaria’s assignment. At dismissal, she offered little more than a blink-blink-blink and batted away the heavy fog of weariness, just long enough for the meaning of the tasks set forth then truly began to seep into those fine recesses of her noggin. “Wait... Cleaniiing!? Ugh, c’mon,” groaned the grown, adult woman as she fixed her hands to her hips, the perfect posture for a dramatic sigh. Housework. Of all things! Those muscles! That massive, highly intellectual brain! Wasted on, what, sweeping? Dusting! Why, she should be doing duties fit for a Vanguard. Not playing maid.

It wasn’t until Syriel’s appeal for any advice moving forward that Elio perked right out from the storm clouds of disappointment. “Bread crumbs! Y’know, so you don’t get lost? When I first started here, that’s how I learned my way around the Palace without being stranded for days in a broom closet. Or,” the Vanguard tipped her head and gave her chest a little thump with a fist. “I can escort you to the head maid! I know this place like the back of my hand–”

Elio paused as she caught sight of the back of her hand. What was that… She scratched at a little speck of caked mud. Likely a tiny badge earned from her training last night. No matter. A confident grin threatened to split her face atwain when she regarded the quiet Kreigsheld once more.

Okay, sure, housekeeping was a bore. But Elio could use her brawn to show her team what a top-tier, awe-inspiring ‘wax on, wax off’ technique looked like. Elio could also use her brain to put Syriel at ease and make her feel as if she were in good, professional, and very strong hands.

 

[Xel]

Rika Solari

★★★★★

Female / Exhelian / 24

Vanguard of Imperius

Low Nobility / Aeromancy / 149.86 cm

EMPEREON PALACE, IMPERIUS, ELESRITH | Interactions: Arkangel (Sinaria) o.Rinn (Elio) Panther (Janus)

Time came and went. While it was a quick turn around it was more than sufficient. Rika went to bed shortly after being dismissed and awoke promptly at 6 in the morning. Ever one to stick to her routine, and with three solid hours before their meeting, so spent the morning doing her usual workout routine before preparing for the day. Looking around it felt as if she were the only one who wasn't stuck yawning at 9 in the bloody morning.

The only notable exception, besides her, was the shinign star before her and the pretty demonoid with who she still never got a proper introduction with. Ah well, such things could wait. She patiently waited for the ever-exuberant Sinaria to explain their objectives. Though being referred to as the little sister of the entire group did cause her eye to twitch ever-so-slightly.

With their jobs assigned and teams made up, people started breaking up into their respective groups. But it was her own sister's whining that drew her narrowed brows. Walking up to stand beside the towering woman she spoke up. "Elio... it's not like we're doing the cleaning ourselves. We have staff for that. We're the oversight ensuring everything is operating smoothly." She shook her head before turning her attention to Janus. "I wouldn't put that much stock in her worth as a guide if I were you. Only thing you can rely on her for is winning a fight and winning some dumb bet at a club." She extended a hand to the woman. "We haven't been properly introduced, I'm Rika Solari. If you need anything and Sinaria's busy, you can come to me."

Rika flashed the woman a kind smile before turning her attention back to the ball of blinding radiance. "So what's the plan then, Boss? Miss. Janus seems to have her plan plotted out, but what about us? Anything specific you want us to do or should we just go find something that needs doing?"

 

[lunar_moth]

Barre Sinister

Magnus Aurelimere

★★★★★★

Male / Exhelian / 28

Vanguard of Imperius

Low Nobility / Pyromancy / 183 cm / 79 kg

EMPEREON PALACE, IMPERIUS, ELESRITH | Interactions: Khocolatte Emiya Shin

Magnus gives Euthalia a quick smile and a tilt of his head, bordering on puppyish.

“Yes, that’s me! Forgive me for not introducing myself earlier, Miss Samon. The pleasure is all mine.”

He darts a glance at Ravenholm, upon the suggestion they team up. “I don’t see why we can’t divide the workload that way, Miss Samon; at least, I certainly don’t mind. Please don’t fret about it — it’s our job to help out in whatever way need be. If you think it would make most sense to be part of the team delivering invitations, then by all means.”

Meanwhile, Magnus’ internal monologue goes more like this: ah shit oh no we have to cook?? i didn’t think i’d have to cook i thought she meant fetching ingredients and delivering the catering, i can’t remember the last time i made anything that wasn’t scrambled eggs or ramen they’re gonna be real pissed at me then ah crap shit shit shit—

Externally, he amps up the smile in Euthalia’s direction. “We’re all in this together, after all.” Perhaps unfortunately, for all the poor cooks and caterers.

 

[Emiya Shin]

Disillusioned Defender

Cecilia Ravenholm

★★★★★★

Female / Demonoid / 32 (April 23rd, 677 EC)

Imperial Security Directorate | "Normal Agent"

Nobility / Geomancy / 172 cm / ?? kg

Emperion Palace, Imperius, Elesrith | Interactions: Arkangel lunar_moth Khocolatte

While waiting for Hildegard's response, the pink haired Hyzurian who has been silent all these while decided to speak out, and even introduced herself. She is Euthalia Samon, who simply introduced herself as... a servant that will help them in preparing the Northern Coalition Ceremony. One thing for sure however, Euthalia is probably not just a mere 'servant', judging on how she carried herself earlier on. The white Demonoid simply nodded her head in tandem with Euthalia's polite bow to her and Magnus. Oh wait, are those dark circles under her eyes? Hmm maybe not, maybe it is just how the lighting works around here.

"Sure, Ms. Samon," Cecilia calmly replied to Euthalia, after she requested her to help out with Magnus, and the fact that she wanted to deliver the invitation letters to the high-ranking officials. "I'll see what I can do to help Magnus with the chefs' requests, say, moving around containers of ingredients, for example. Though... I don't think we'll have to help out with the preparation of the feast, am I right?"

Cecilia shot a gaze at Hildegard, bringing the question to her attention. She then reverted her focus to Euthalia, and of course Magnus who gave his approval earlier on. "I think the organizers should know better in putting us with such a very crucial responsibility, haha!" She chuckled in-between her words. "But if it comes to that, I believe that I'm handy with a kitchen knife, and basic stuffs that is required of me as a Noble."

 

[Arkangel]

Vanguards of Imperius

Hildegard Albrecht

Female | Exhelian-Revenant | Age Unknown

Debilitating. If Hildegard had to use a singular adjective to describe the energy she received from Morphus, it'd be just that. Perhaps a little too energetic for her taste, but nonetheless quite the tiresome individual to be around with, considering that Morphus is not the type to respect people's personal space, exercising her playfulness as the world revolved around her. However, despite her natural dislike towards people like her, there was no doubt that Hildegard respected her colleagues greatly and even valued them from within.

Nonetheless, she sighed and rolled her eyes, knowing beforehand that she was going to take the leadership role for this specific chore way before the gathering occurred. Having been briefed by Morphus prior, she nonchalantly nodded and gestured the others to follow, saving herself the headache of having to meet face to face with Dietrich.

After the short conversation between the others, she spoke with a casual tone for everyone to hear after a quick scoff, "Hilarious. Not to burst your bubble, but we Vanguards aren't housemaids. That was just Morphus' sarcastic way of saying that we're on external duties. The ceremony is within a week—what, you think we're going to serve our guests refrigerated ingredients? We'll be placing a domestic order on recipes later in the week, so for now, we're going to be focusing on other things."

Hildegard pushed the front door open to reveal Elesrith's fantastic weather colored with the empyrean blue, occupying several groups of clouds that helped with the mesmerizing scenery. Surrounding the mansion were tall sequoia trees planted by their ancestors since the founding era. The Bismarck estate, otherwise known as the Emperon Palace, was certainly an impressive place in this vast empire.

She turned around and faced her team, "Before we ride to the cities, any of you specialize in sniper rifles? Except for you, Dietrich, you'll be on a different duty more fitting for your style."

Khocolatte Emiya Shin lunar_moth​

Kriegsheld Cadre | 6th

Dietrich Lexcher

Male | Exhelian | Age 274

'Hah... It wasn't like I was going to raise my hand anyway, but alright.' Dietrich chuckled and thought, having not been able to get his hands on a rifle since his days in the Order, much to Hildegard's disinterest in his personal life.

"That's quite the jump from fetching material goods to the potential assassination. How exciting, although I'm quite worried of intruding into the affairs of the Vanguards." Dietrich voiced his concerns, though if he were to be truly honest, he was rather interested in what Hildegard had in store for the rest of them. "Not that I believe Lord Kaiser would prevent us from aiding the Vanguards in any of their troubles. Making a good connection with you lot is our primary objective, after all."

Khocolatte Emiya Shin lunar_moth​

 

[Arkangel]

Vanguards of Imperius

Sinaria Morphus

Female | Exhelian-Demonoid | Age 120+

Her smug smile having never left her face since the dawn of morning, Sinaria led the group into the corridors of the palace, although it was only Syriel that followed with her vision locked onto Sinaria's movement, as the others already knew of the path towards the vast kitchen. Perhaps a confusing trip in the eyes of the Arclight, after but a moment they found themselves standing in the kitchen after excusing themselves into the entrance door, faced with hundreds of chefs contracted around the world to come and cook for the ceremony, showing just how serious the Bismarcks took their celebration. "An interesting line of cuisines shall be presented before us during the exciting anniversary. However, we are not here to join them... Sir Julius Montferrat! Yoohoo~"

Panther Xel o.Rinn​

House Montferrat

Julius Montferrat

Male | Exhelian | Age 24

Like a silent shadow looming behind its target, their aura and energy were concealed by the magic of great skill, completely absent to all who were not visually aware of his presence. Quietly he snickered and waved from behind the team, having made his entrance shortly before the group.

"A fair morning to you as well, Lady Morphus."

Mildly startled by the sudden voice behind them, Sinaria turned around in surprise and awed at his presence, "Oh my! How rude of you to sneak behind us like that, Sir Julius!" she sarcastically pouted.

The man nodded, "An apology is in order. Though I digress, it seems you've brought me a formidable team of operatives. Of course, I'm quite familiar with the two ladies of the Solari name, as we've certainly met before in the past ceremonies. However..." Julius turned his attention to Syriel, "You must be one of the Arclights. Send Lord Kaiser my condolences, not a day goes by without Her Majesty denigrating his honor in the imperial palace. As her designated butler, I have become rather jaded to her words. But, as a historian of many fables that this empire entertains, I am a fan of his story. Please, do introduce me to his lord when he is capable."

Julius concluded his sentence with a gentle smile and a singular nod to Syriel before returning his attention back to Sinaria and the others, "So, let us discuss our strategy. Is everyone familiar with our priorities before the ceremony?"

"In exchange for the support of House Montferrat for the Northern Coalition between Volcrest and Elesrith, the head of the Montferrats often demands the Vanguard's cooperation in weeding out the opposition of the crown. I'm sure you're all already aware of House Montferrat's position in politics, considering they are the only noble house that serves directly under Her Majesty. This year, for their support, they want us to help in their endeavors by investigating and terminating the Golden Path Organization that operates in Elesrith. Formerly a lawful faction, they've turned from street protesting against the monarchy to domestic terroristic attacks. Four years ago, Sir Aldous Faust was tasked with annihilating the Golden Paths for good, but it seems they've found themselves a new competent leader. Because of his absence, we're tasked with supporting the Montferrats by working together with their ambassador." Sinaria pointed at Julius, suggesting that he was the ambassador who was sent from the capital of Caliburn Vitos.

Julius nodded, "An excellent summarization of our agreement. My father, Lord Montferrat, is naturally not a fan of the Northern Coalition, as Elesrith is not a province that requires a close ally. Fearing for the worst, he is quite against Elesrith making any political ties with other provinces. House Bismarck is, after all, a vast member of the Empyrian Empire's culture and economy."

Panther Xel o.Rinn​

 

[Emiya Shin]

Disillusioned Defender

Cecilia Ravenholm

★★★★★★

Female / Demonoid / 32 (April 23rd, 677 EC)

Imperial Security Directorate | "Normal Agent"

Nobility / Geomancy / 172 cm / ?? kg

Emperion Palace, Imperius, Elesrith | Interactions: Arkangel lunar_moth Khocolatte

Cecilia lets out hearty chuckle after Hildegard clarified on the situation. Her words finally put her at ease. Heck, she finally felt like at home. Unfortunately, Cecilia seemed like she was not concerned about Dietrich getting a different assignment than the rest of the group. Then again, he seemed like a capable man, at least based from his looks.

"Hahaha! Now that's more like it. I figured that no one in their right mind they would order us to do such menial tasks. I don't mind it personally, but that's an utter waste of manpower."

She then straightened herself, as the white-haired Demonoid entered the next topic.

"I also wished that Ms. Morphus could be more straightfoward with her words. If you didn't help in explaining the situation, Ms. Albrecht, I'm seriously thinking that we'll be errant boys and girls for today. As for specialization in sniper rifles..."

Cecilia sighed in-between her words, displaying a look of guilt. "I'm afraid that I'm not excel in long-range armament. I'm more of a... close ranged combatant with my ballistic shield, and my Geomancy abilities. In other words, I'm a meat shield."

She briefly explained her current role, while started getting more and more informal in her speech.

 

[Panther]

The Mage Knight

Syriel Janus

★★★★★

Female / Exhelian / 35

Kriegsheld Cadre | 2nd Arclight

Commoner / Enchantment / 175.26 cm / 65.7709 kg

Emperion Palace, Imperius, Elesrith, Mainland Agartha | Interactions: Arkangel o.Rinn Xel

Syriel knew that there was something more than just menial preparations for the Northern Coalition Ceremony, she was in the room with her House Bismarck contemporary, Lady Bismarck, and Lord Kaiser when they discussed. Whether the Vanguards knew of this or not, it mattered little. The Demonoid Cecilia however, was the one who was most likely kept in the dark, she thought that she’s probably being informed of the true reason of their being here as of this moment.

They walked into the kitchen and right on cue, were surprised from behind by a man dressed in a butler’s uniform. But this man was no ordinary butler, he’s a Montferrat butler. Hailing from a Noble House that serves directly under the Empress whose key role is to provide Ophelia Castle with its army of household servants, and even the Empress’s personal guard, advisors, confidantes, and even… assassins. The fact that many children of the House and those of others placed in their care were trained to serve and fulfill these very purposes made Syriel’s stomach churn. She couldn’t imagine what they’ve gone through and dared not to. To her, their lives and futures were taken away, replaced by a new one that seemed nigh totally empty save for the fact that they live and die for the Empress and Empyria, literally. For House Bismarck to consort with them meant serious business, House Montferrat may be both respectable and reprehensible to her, but they were qualified, nay, more than qualified for any job.

Bewildered and flabbergasted as she was by the man’s, Julius’s, sudden appearance, shown by her face and reflexes instinctively having her recoil, she returns the nod, replying in reference to Julius’s overhearing of the Empress’s remarks about her liege, “Now that you’ve mentioned that to those with me… ah well, people are bound to know eventually. I-I’ll see if I can arrange a meeting between the two of you, since Drai- Lord Kaiser is with Lady Bismarck, I think the next few days would be the best chance. But given what we’re really here for, even that chance is slim.” Afterwards, she lets Sinaria and Julius take the floor before turning to the rest to see if they got the memo. The politics somewhat mattered to her as a requirement and her natural curiosity. Sinaria? Was that even a question? As for the Solari sisters, they likely got it with different but similar interpretations that nonetheless should arrive at the same conclusion.

Then she asks, “What of our exact mission profile? Every one of us here now knows what everyone’s all split into two teams for.”

 

[lunar_moth]

Barre Sinister

Magnus Aurelimere

★★★★★★

Male / Exhelian / 28

Vanguard of Imperius

Low Nobility / Pyromancy / 183 cm / 79 kg

EMPEREON PALACE, IMPERIUS, ELESRITH | Interactions: Arkangel Khocolatte Emiya Shin

Magnus places a hand over his old man heart and breathes a sigh of relief. If he were an animated character he’d be sweatdropping — thank all that is holy that none of them actually were expected to run errands all day. …Not that he wouldn’t have done so wholeheartedly, upon being given the order, but. Well.

“Ahem, ah… I have to agree with Miss Ravenholm on this one. What a relief, honestly. I was beginning to wonder if we were hired just to be pretty faces and to return to our teenage roots as busboys,” Magnus says, scrubbing a hand exasperatedly over the back of his neck. “And, admittedly, I’m not what one could consider a specialist in sniper rifles either; I prefer to take up a more traditional ‘mage’ position, situation allowing. That being said, I am capable of versatility and I’m sure I can keep up with whatever my lady has planned for today.” He finishes by angling his head at Albrecht in acknowledgment.

 

[Arkangel]

Vanguards of Imperius

Hildegard

Hildegard Albrecht

Emperon Palace, Elesrith

A lazy eye roll was used to respond to Cecilia's comments regarding Sinaria, "It's her trademark trait. Keep that in mind the next time you speak with her. Not that I care, though." Hildegard spoke and continued shortly afterward, "Good, you'll be this taskforce's bruiser. We'll have Magnus supporting you behind your shield, and this shitface can be the main executioner." Hildegard pointed at Dietrich and quickly continued before he could speak, "Euthalia will act as our trump card. One that will remain hidden until her skill is required. As for myself, I'll be standing in the rear, giving out orders using my familiars to give me visuals on the situation. This, of course, would mean that I'd be taking on the sniper role if no one else is capable."

Having concluded her words she began to lead her team towards the nearest vehicle that they would take to get to the cities, having already booked a proper ride for their travels before the team was even formed, knowing how the group was going to split prior. Awaiting for them in the private estate parking lot was a lightly armored vehicle often used by the Vanguards for their personal travels.

Before they would enter and travel she stopped to turn around, "It's simple. Infiltrate, control, and interrogate. Nothing special, it'll be that simple. The question you may be asking is who exactly are we targeting, and why. Well..." Hildegard sighed for a brief moment, "We Vanguards exist for a reason, and it isn't because our titles are a tradition for House Bismarck to entertain. Elesrith, like any other province dealing with its oppositions, is constantly under threat by hundreds of political opponents using cheap tricks to get their way. I couldn't give a less of a shit about how the Kaisers take care of their hostiles, but the Bismarcks prefer it be done privately with... lethal force. The one we'll be going against specifically is the Sindalone Organization operating in Elesrith. I'm sure you lot have heard about them?"

Code by Serobliss

Kriegsheld Cadre

Gundahar

Dietrich Lexcher

Emperon Palace, Elesrith

"The Sindalone Organization is the unofficial name of a cartel that primarily exists in Aucteraden and Zhenra, but migrated into the other provinces illegally through connections with other criminal organizations. They've been around for at least three decades, and are the ones who sell weapons underground to criminal entities. The ISD has been on their tail for a significant amount of time, but like the others, they've been rather untrackable." Dietrich explained in the stead of Hildegard before turning his attention back to the leader, "That begs the question. Their interest lies in profit, does it not? From how I remember, they have no interest in political gain. A marketer who sells items to its clients who are demanding illegal goods are usually never interested in politics."

Hildegard nodded and scoffed, "Would you look at that, you haven't been slacking around for the last few decades, huh? It would be odd if an illegal group of merchants like the Sindalone Organization was politically motivated. Fortunately, that's not the case. Unfortunately, that doesn't stop them from arming their friends with weapons and mercenaries. Like the ones that are driven by violence and radical ideologies. Our old enemies from the past that Faust got rid of a few years ago, called the Golden Path."

Dietrich raised an eyebrow, "The Golden Path Organization? They're history from what I can remember."

"Remnants of its former army of terrorists found themselves a new commander from the looks of it. A Vanguard who goes by the name of Hanji was investigating them a few weeks ago and found out that they've resurfaced under a new banner. Destroy, rebuild, democracy. A cliche excuse for wanting to recruit socially frustrated individuals and influencing them to join in their radical strategies to overthrow the monarchy. Not that their efforts have ever been proven effective, considering they're no strangers to holding hostages and bombing political figures when they are low guarded."

Hildegard's efforts of dropping a load of information stunned Dietrich momentarily, but after a few seconds of silence shared between the group he spoke, "Fascinating. There is potential to be had here. The Sindalones are no strangers to arming their customers, but they also have a recorded history of denying demands from groups that used their weapons for a senseless killing. A confusing moral, but nonetheless troubling for the ISD. Do we know why they are arming well-known terrorists?"

The white-haired Revenant growled, "No, dumbass—that's why we're investigating them. Hanji has already done enough to speculate where their bases are held and which ports we need to hit to obtain additional information. We'll be making a round trip around four separate centers around Imperius over the course of the week before we rendezvous with the other team. For the record, we'll be dealing with the Sindalones by sanctioning their supplies to the Golden Path terrorists. Sinaria and her group will deal with the Golden Paths by themselves with the help of a certain House I'm not very fond of. More on that later. Do we have any questions?"

Code by Serobliss

 

[Emiya Shin]

Disillusioned Defender

Cecilia Ravenholm

★★★★★★

Female / Demonoid / 32 (April 23rd, 677 EC)

Imperial Security Directorate | "Normal Agent"

Nobility / Geomancy / 172 cm / ?? kg

Emperion Palace, Imperius, Elesrith | Interactions: Arkangel lunar_moth Khocolatte

Cecilia merely nodded at Hildegard, as she said that Sinaria's sugarcoating antics are her trademarks. She also revealed her own planning of a formation, possibly for their upcoming operation. One thing for sure however, was Hildegard's particular disdain of Dietrich, when she addressed him with a rather... 'polite' term called shitface. It definitely made the Demonoid raised her eyebrows, and even almost laughed at it.

Once that was done, Hildegard led Cecilia and the others to a lightly armored vehicle at the Emperion Palace's private parking lot. The Revenant once again turned around, and revealed more information regarding on their assignment. Upon hearing the words 'infiltrate, control, and interrogate', it definitely seemed like they are tasked to execute some sort of raid. And the target?

Sindalone Organization.

Cecilia tried racking her brain for any familiarity about the name. Unfortunately, she did not have the slightest idea, even though the ISD has been trying to track them for a while now. The Demonoid merely listened to the discussion between Dietrich and Hildegard, with the latter roasting how out of touch Dietrich was. It was a major information dump, as Hildegard revealed that Sindalone Organization has been arming what it seemed to be a past terrorist group called Golden Path. As for this particular faction, Cecilia recalled hearing the name before, but it was at the time when she was just an ISD cadet.

The part about Sindalone Organization having their own morals was also a surprising fact, as it enabled Cecilia to consider that there could be some form of redemption from the organization that can be gained. Then again, that is just simply a too far-fetched ideal to think of now, considering that it is an organized crime faction. Once Hildegard revealed that the team will be dealing with the Sindalone Organization,, the floor is now open to the team.

"For this week starting today," Cecilia started asking some questions. "I assume we'll be staking out the four spots that rumored to have the Organization's presence? Are we required to tap in their comms, or even disguise as a Sindalone Organization member to get information needed to raid their hideout?"

 

[lunar_moth]

Barre Sinister

Magnus Aurelimere

★★★★★★

Male / Exhelian / 28

Vanguard of Imperius

Low Nobility / Pyromancy / 183 cm / 79 kg

EMPEREON PALACE, IMPERIUS, ELESRITH | Interactions: Arkangel Emiya Shin Khocolatte

”Understood, my lady,” Magnus says upon being assigned to back Cecilia amidst the raid. His brain latches momentarily on what she’s said about Euthalia— but, well, no use dwelling now, they’ll find out what her (metaphorical?) “secret weapon” is shortly.

He barely manages to hide a wince at all the names Hildegard calls Dietrich. …Were they (or just she, really) the ones busy with a screaming match the night before??

Whatever. ‘Hanji’ and ‘Sindalone’ are names that, at the very least, he has heard before. Magnus’ familiarity with the other Vanguard is negligible — he can picture her face if he tries, but that’s about all. Hopefully, if she hasn’t left a huge impression on him thus far, it’s because she’s actually competent at her job (unlike some people, and Magnus has to fight not to glance over at those in question, who have been notably absent from the discussion so far. Oh well, not his problem) . That being said, the Sindalone’s modus operandi does strike him as odd;

“Not interested in politics, only cash, but they still only sell to those whose morals they approve of? …I’m not sure that’s really the best strategy to maximize your business,” he mutters with a thoughtful hand on his chin, mostly to himself.

He nods along absently to Cecilia’s questions. He would have assumed their plans veered more shock-and-awe than stealthy infiltration, but it was worth asking nonetheless. “Are we rendezvousing with Hanji and her team at all before the raids? Is she part of this too?”

 

[Xel]

Rika Solari

★★★★★

Female / Exhelian / 24

Vanguard of Imperius

Low Nobility / Aeromancy / 149.86 cm

EMPEREON PALACE, IMPERIUS, ELESRITH | Interactions: Arkangel (Sinaria/Butler Boy) o.Rinn (Elio) Panther (Syriel)

Like the rest of their little group, she followed along to the kitchen. Indeed she had no problem navigating herself there, she'd been there ample times before after all. But it was what happened upon their arrival that dampened her spirits. A familiar face appeared behind them and a combined extolling of their proper mission. She listened dutifully, arms folded under her chest and a rather sour expression adorning her face. Only once the man finished speaking did she let out a small sigh. "I had assumed there was more to our being here than overseeing housecleaning, but it would have been nice to have been told earlier."

The younger Solari cast a light glare at both the butler and the ever-shining ray of sunlight that was their leader. "So, since this is being sprung on us in the kitchen, let me see if I properly understood it. A terrorist organization by the name of Golden Path is stirring up trouble and we need to do our part to take it out, right? Assuming I got that correct, what exactly are we supposed to do? Do we know where they're located? Do they have plans for the ceremony? Do we know who their new leader is?" With the talk turning to a proper mission, one befitting their station, Rika fell into her usual overly-earnest work attitude. Every question that floated through her mind left through her mouth and she was very much eager to learn every tidbit of information there was to know. Her eyes darting back and forth between the pair as she searched for that information.

 

[o.Rinn]

Elio Solari

★★★★★

Female / Exhelian / 28

Vanguard of Imperius

Low Nobility / Photomancy / 178 cm / 79 kg

EMPEREON PALACE, IMPERIUS, ELESRITH | Interactions: Arkangel Panther Xel

Elio whiffed the lingering smells that hung in the air of the kitchen as they entered, and her amber eyes sought about the vast space for a snack here or a crumb there, something to keep the dog-brained woman’s ever action-seeking mind on the hunt whilst Sinaria expounded upon exposition. Elio assumed she would as much. Something-something maids. Something-something chores. At their chipper Vanguard’s titter, the atmosphere shifted. A presence manifested. The hairs upon the eldest Solari's nape recognized the unexpected assembly before the rest of her caught up, and gooseflesh prickled. Her body moved on instinct. In a tense snap, she whipped around, fists wound tight and ready to swing — and at the familiar face of Julius Montferrat, Elio was swift to regain consciousness of her actions. Would be of awful taste or whatever to go around punching a Montferrat in the maw, Rika would likely chide. Even if he did scare the living shit out of her first.

Elio’s startled exasperation soon eased into acceptance. As much as she wanted to jab the man on the shoulder in greeting, nevermind formality, there was apparently so much to be said already, and she was left with little choice but to melt into the background, hands on hips and head cocking from one talking mouth to another with all the perplexity of a pup. There were a lot of question marks and exclamation points being tossed about. All Elio could conclude was that maybe her precious, precious axe would finally get a taste of action after all, what with all this discussion about domestic terrorists and what-not. And with that, Elio was grinning.

 

[Arkangel]

Vanguards of Imperius

Hildegard

Hildegard Albrecht

Emperon Palace, Elesrith

As the one entrusted with the leadership of an operation, this was certainly demanding. Chosen for her experience in this particular field and mastery over her techniques, Hildegard rarely ever rose her hand when asked about the role of leadership, for this specific reason. A short temper. Admittedly, she had dealt with anger management issues since her days in the imperial army, and while she could sensibly control her emotions—sometimes, when she is confronted by multiple people who direct their attention at her, she would often be overwhelmed and act differently.

Even so, after reuniting with one of her closest friends after nearly a century, she couldn’t find it in her to exclaim the following words: ”YOU’RE ALL PROFESSIONALS! FIGURE IT THE FUCK OUT!”

Having said that, Hildegard sighed and responded accordingly. “The five of us are on offensive duty. We’ve already hired someone of prominent technical skills to take care of anything mechanical related, considering that both groups are running on limited time.“ Hildegard replied to Cecilia’s concerns.

She followed through and answered Magnus, ”Hanji’s stationed elsewhere, dealing with a separate issue. She was scheduled to undertake this operation this week but things never go according to the plan in this fucking establishment. I, myself, was supposed to be given a week's break. But I’m here, stuck with you three.” The Vanguard scoffed and furtively winked at Euthalia.

Followed by a light chuckle, Hildegard then responded to Euthalia’s inquiries, ”We Vanguards are always connected one way or another. Don’t worry about any of that, I got it handled. As for the number of hooligans we’d have to arrest and subsequentially interrogate… roughly around 70 per station, perhaps? I’m sure our hired technician will give us the estimated numbers when we get there.”

A loud groan escaped her mouth as she tapped the vehicle behind her. "Anyways, get in. We can discuss the rest when we get there."

Leadership really wasn’t her thing, after all. ’Maybe it’s best to just transfer captaincy to Dietrich… I mean, he displayed an impressive amount of charisma during that particular war several hundred years ago. I’m sure he could handle a team like this without much problem…’ Regardless, of the number of times she had audibly exhausted her breath and according to the obvious body language, Hildegard really didn’t like this.

The team was fine. A man with vast experience with covert operations and a Demonoid woman who was proficient in the frontlines. And a fellow Vanguard whom she could trust with his capabilities. Lastly, the Hyzurian warrior who rivals the average Collbrande. Truth be told, she couldn’t have asked for a better team.

If anything, knowing Sinaria’s methodologies and House Montferrat’s vicious modus operandi, she was more worried about having to clean the mess that was the aftermath of Sinaria’s carnage.

Emiya Shin lunar_moth Khocolatte

Code by Serobliss

 

[Emiya Shin]

Imperial Security Directorate

Cecilia

Cecilia Ravenholm

Emperion Palace, Elesrith

Cecilia relaxed her posture, and nodded when Hildegard explained that they will be on the offensive. The Demonoid could do stake outs and what not, but she prefers to do something more... straightforward, like apprehending perps for example. Besides, Cecilia's acting skills are barren at best. In most normal conversations, she tends to keep herself quiet.

As Hildegard proceeded to answer both Magnus's and Euthalia's questions, Cecilia merely listened on. It seems like everything was indeed planned, although there were some setbacks, namely on Hanji's side. At least to the white-haired Demonoid, everything seems to be in an acceptable parameter. At least for ISD standards, since nobody got caught or screwed up in their duty. There is also the part about apprehending an estimated amount of 70 people per station, but she chose not to think about it too much. One thing for sure, Hildegard seemed to be exhausted. Or was it uncomfortable?

Cecilia did also noticed the shift of tone when she spoke to Euthalia. A small hint of curiosity landed on her thoughts, but she decided to sweep it under the metaphorical rug inside her head. Now is not the time to think about other people's relationships. Especially when Hildegard ordered the group to enter the lightly armored vehicle behind her. Perhaps once they are on the road, maybe then Cecilia could quietly listen in and assess through their potential banters.

"Are you driving, Ms. Albrecht? I'll take the front passenger seat, then."

The white-haired Demonoid replied with her usual professionalism, as she moved towards the door that leads to the vehicle's front passenger seat. Of course, the other team members are free to claim the other seats, or even exchange with Cecilia.

Arkangel lunar_moth Khocolatte

Code by Serobliss

 

[Arkangel]

House Montferrat

Julius

Julius Montferrat

Emperon Palace, Elesrith

Julius nodded in response to the party's list of questions, though the general inquiry eventually was on the curiosity of the operation itself. Of course, Julius and Sinaria wouldn't have assembled a team without creating an agenda of sorts, prior to this moment. To explain with efficiency and proper visuals, Julius turned around and gestured the others to follow, "Allow me to do the honors of explaining the mission in the command room. It should help with visualizing your role in this activity to come."

Less than a minute had passed since they had arrived at the operations area, with several House Montferrat members walking around with a headpiece, communicating with one another about a related subject. The Vanguards would notice that this room before it would turn into a small headquarters for the Montferrats, was previously used as a storage for armaments, though the weapons rack was still on display.

The butler amongst the group cleared his throat. He then pointed at the widescreen on the back wall, and underneath it was controlled by several computers connected to the display, mounted by several Montferrat servants. "The one leading the part of assassinating the Golden Path board of leadership is my dear elder sister. Stealth and espionage is her profession, so do allow us to make use of her talents for that specific part. First, once you've been informed, I'll have one of my assistants drive you to the place of operations. After that is quite self-explanatory. Penetrate through their fortress and force their commanders to use their escape route. That's roughly how the first part of the operation will go. Afterward, we'll go for the others that managed to evade their arrest. We have eyes on several locations, so don't worry about having to do any detective work. That's what we Montferrat servants are for, after all."

Panther Xel o.Rinn

Code by Serobliss